MSC heading for the Premiership whilst maintaining lower division pricing

Historically, let’s be honest, MSC have not enjoyed good feedback. Having sailed with them twice I have to say I think feedback about them has been harsh to say the least, but let me tell you, things are a changing!
More and more often I am getting great feedback, and not only great feedback but people are booking again and again with them. I have one particular client, a lovely man who likes things to be ‘right’. He has cruised for many years with Cunard and Celebrity and he recently did his first MSC cruise. His verdict? “Could not fault a thing!” Added to which, a leading figure in the cruise industry recently cruised on MSC’s Divina and declared that she was probably the best ship on offer in the Caribbean at the moment.

If you want a great cruise at an even better price then MSC are the cruise line for you. Over the last couple of years many, many things have changed and they are now a serious contender, up there with the big boys.
Back in 2010 myself and a colleague were lucky enough to experience MSC’s version of Cunards Grills and we had a wonderful time. Here are my thoughts on Yacht Club for those of you looking for something extra special.

We flew from London Gatwick to Genoa and took the included transfer to the port which took about 10 minutes. Apoint worth noting – when you fly into Genoa you fly over the port as you come in to land. We had a fantatic birds eye view of the ship, a really impressive sight! So, be sure to look out of the window when flying into Genoa. We were directed to a seperate check in desk especially for Yacht Club passengers, seperate from the masses, and here the ‘experience’ began. We were met by our personal Butler, Danny, who was an absolute delight, and could not have done more for us. Our wish was his command! All the Butlers in Yacht Club are trained at the International Butler School in Holland, and their service is second to none. I was only sorry that at the end of the cruise I couldn’t fit him in my suitcase – believe me, I tried!

The day after we embarked we were given a full tour of the ship by our host Craig Jeffs (MSC). These MSC ships are breathtaking, the decor is stunning, running seamlessly from one area into another.

The evening entertainment was excellent and varied. the theatre, which is the largest at sea, did a sort of Sword in the Stone meets Cirque de Soleil which was excellent. I can also recommend L’Insolito Lounge, with dance music to suit young and old alike, and great dance hosts. The Liquid Disco is great too, although the music tends to be Europop!
The kids facilities are great for the younger kids and there is also a ‘Teen Zone’. Warning – the F1 simulator and the 4D Cinema are great but cost about 6 euros a go, so you will need to limit your kids access to these!

The food on board is ok, tastes good, but the presentation is lacking and it isn’t always very hot. A point worth noting is that L’etoile, the French Restaurant, is inclusive for Yacht Club Clients. I would recommend that you ask your Butler to reserve you a table here for evening meals, the food and the service are second to none.

Another restaurant well worth trying, although not inclusive for Yacht Club, is the Tex Mex restaurant. The food is excellent and very reasonably priced.
All in all, the Yacht Club experience is fantastic, and I would recommend it to anyone. It will please even the most discerning cruiser

So, there you have it, good value for money cruising to suit everyone really. for more information about MSC cruises and availability please call me on 0800 408 6084 or email me at [email protected].